Hey Hosting Queen,

It’s almost party time, Queen! 🎉
The planning is done, the vision is clear, and now it’s time to shop. This is the phase where everything starts coming together — and also the moment where it’s so easy to get carried away. (Trust me, I’ve been there!)

Your time and money are valuable resources. Before you even step foot in a store, I want you to be strategic and efficient.
This is where your list becomes your best friend.

1. Start With Your Menu

Ask yourself:

• What do you want to serve?
  
  

• Will you be making it, buying it, or having it catered?
  
  

• What do you already have at home?
  
  

• What ingredients or items still need to be purchased?
  
  

The clarity begins here — and it saves you so much stress later.

2. Decide Where You’re Shopping

Pick your stores before you leave the house.

• Costco truly is the best for hosting (I don’t get paid to say that!)
  
  

• It’s ideal for large quantities, single-ingredient items, and pre-made foods
  
  

Give yourself plenty of time:

• Plan your main food shop 2–3 days before your event
  
  

• Book catered or ordered items weeks in advance
  
  

Pro Tip:
Keep your party shopping separate from your regular groceries. Combining the two leads to overwhelm, extra purchases, and unnecessary stress.

3. Buy Only What You Need

Once you’re inside the store, it’s easy to get swept up in all the fun, seasonal, and “should I?” items.

Queen…
DON’T DO IT.
Stick to your list. It’s there to protect your time, money, and mental energy.

4. No Shopping on Prep Day or Party Day

This one is a game changer.

Plan ahead so you’re not running errands the day before — or worse, the day of — your event. When I started doing this, everything shifted. I felt calmer, more prepared, and more present. I even had time for a nap on party day! And yes… my kitchen was clean and sparkling by the time guests arrived.

So remember:
☑️ Keep things simple
☑️ Plan ahead
☑️ Carry your list

Hosting becomes so much easier when you shop smart — and you deserve that ease, Queen.

Did you know that shopping can be included in my full-service, in-person planning packages? It’s one more way I take the stress off your shoulders so you can shine.

Less Stress, More Magic ~ Always

With Love,

Krista